International Patient Safety Day

International Patient Safety Day is observed annually on September 17. In 2026, this date falls on a Thursday. This global health day aims to raise awareness about patient safety and encourage action to reduce preventable harm in healthcare. Established by the World Health Organization, it brings together patients, healthcare workers, policymakers, and communities to promote safer care for all.

History of International Patient Safety Day

International Patient Safety Day was established by the World Health Assembly in 2019 through resolution WHA72.6 on global action on patient safety. The first observance took place on September 17, 2019, making it one of the WHO’s official global public health days. The day was originally initiated by the German Coalition for Patient Safety (Aktionsbündnis Patientensicherheit e. V. – APS) before being adopted by the WHO as a worldwide campaign.

Since its inception, each year has focused on a specific patient safety theme, such as safe maternal and newborn care, improving diagnosis, and engaging patients as partners. The 2026 theme centers on safe care for noncommunicable diseases, with the slogan “Safe care for life!” The day serves as a platform for governments, organizations, and individuals to highlight patient safety challenges and work toward solutions.

Why is International Patient Safety Day important?

Patient safety is a fundamental principle of healthcare, yet millions of patients worldwide suffer preventable harm each year. Medical errors, misdiagnoses, medication mistakes, and healthcare-associated infections are among the leading causes of injury and death in healthcare settings. International Patient Safety Day raises awareness of these risks and calls for systemic improvements to protect patients.

The day emphasizes that patient safety is a shared responsibility. It encourages collaboration among healthcare providers, patients, families, and policymakers to create safer health systems. By focusing attention on specific safety issues each year, the campaign drives policy changes, promotes best practices, and empowers patients to take an active role in their own care.

• Raises global awareness about the scale and impact of preventable patient harm
• Encourages healthcare organizations to adopt safety protocols and reporting systems
• Promotes meaningful engagement of patients and families in their care decisions
• Highlights the need for safe diagnosis, medication management, and infection control
• Fosters a culture of safety where errors are learned from rather than hidden

How to Celebrate International Patient Safety Day

Observing International Patient Safety Day can involve participating in events organized by hospitals, health ministries, and patient advocacy groups. Many landmarks and public buildings are lit in orange, the campaign color, to show solidarity. Healthcare institutions may hold training sessions, safety workshops, or open forums to discuss patient safety challenges and solutions.

Individuals can also contribute by learning about patient safety rights and speaking up about concerns during medical visits. Sharing information on social media using hashtags like #WorldPatientSafetyDay helps spread the message. Patients and families are encouraged to become active partners in their healthcare, asking questions and verifying treatments to reduce risks.

• Attend or organize a local patient safety event or webinar
• Light a building or landmark in orange on September 17
• Use social media to share patient safety tips and resources
• Review your own healthcare experiences and report any safety concerns
• Encourage healthcare providers to adopt patient safety checklists and protocols

International Patient Safety Day Dates